Dr. Tom Parks

Biography

Tom Parks is a Clinical Associate Professor at Imperial College London in the Department of Infectious Disease. His research primarily focuses on understanding the genetics of host influence on susceptibility to infectious and inflammatory diseases. His main research interest is in the diverse diseases caused by the human-restricted bacterial pathogen, Streptococcus pyogenes, which is known as Group A streptococcus. These include common superficial infections like pharyngitis and impetigo, as well as more invasive infections such as necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. His work addresses significant public health issues, as these diseases account for an estimated 0.5 million deaths annually worldwide. Currently, he is involved in building a licensed vaccine for S. pyogenes. A particular focus of his research is the susceptibility to rheumatic heart disease, with an emphasis on understanding the complex genetic regions and immunoglobulin gene loci that influence the acquisition of antibody-mediated immunity. To achieve this, he employs a combination of array genotyping and short-read sequencing alongside targeted long-read approaches. Additionally, he serves as the President of the Lancefield Society, an international association that unites professionals working on streptococci and streptococcal diseases to improve research, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.

Research Interests